FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
There are a lot of questions and even misunderstandings about hypnotherapy. Find answers to some of the more common questions below. However, please feel free to contact me for an informal chat.
WHAT IS HYPNOTHERAPY?
Hypnotherapy is a form of talk therapy that uses the power of positive suggestion and guided imagery to encourage a desired change.
A hypnotherapist uses relaxation techniques to help you reach a state where the conscious part of your mind becomes less dominant and your unconscious mind becomes more dominant. Our brain waves vibrate at different frequencies and when are going into hypnosis, the brain waves tend to slow down from Beta to Alpha to a Theta state (similar to a meditative state). Our subconscious mind is then ready to accept a range of guided imagery, healing words, and verbal repetition to encourage positive behaviors and the change you're looking for.
CAN YOU MAKE ME DO SOMETHING I WOULD NOT BE COMFORTABLE WITH?
No, all hypnotherapists follow a code of ethics and equally, you are very much in control during the session, even in a relaxed state. Hypnotherapy is not about being made to do anything you don't want to do, in fact it is the opposite, it is about empowering you to help you make the changes you wish to.
WILL I BE ASLEEP DURING?
No and it is unlikely you will fall asleep during hypnotherapy, although you will feel relaxed and comfortable. If you do happen to fall asleep during, I will continue with the session, as the subconscious mind is still fully aware and taking in the positive suggestions. You will, of course be woken and fully refreshed before leaving the session.
WHAT DOES HYPNOTHERAPY FEEL LIKE?
Hypnotherapy is different for everyone, however, most people describe it as a very relaxed feeling or state, where they can still hear things going on around them. Others explain it as similar to a dream like state or the feeling of being in between awake and asleep. Your body is fully relaxed and limbs can feel either light or heavy during the sessions.
DOES HYPNOTHERAPY WORK?
Hypnotherapy has the capacity to work for most people but some are certainly more susceptible to positive suggestion than others. Being fully committed to the process and feeling that you have a good rapport with your hypnotherapist is key. It's also important to keep an open mind, as any scepticism may subconsciously lessen your susceptibility.
CAN SESSIONS TAKE PLACE ONLINE AND IN PERSON?
Yes - hypnotherapy and hypnobirthing sessions can all take place online via video conference, meaning you don't need to be based near to Sussex, you can be anywhere in the UK and beyond. Sessions also take place in person, which are conducted either in the comfort of your own home or a mutually convenient and comfortable setting.
HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED?
The number of sessions required will be discussed between us at the initial consultation. Typically I would recommend starting with 4-6 sessions and then review progress and how you're feeling. Some people may need additional sessions, depending on the support required.
HOW LONG DOES A SESSION LAST?
The initial consultation (first session) is 1.5 - 2 hours, which can take place via phone, video conference or in person. Here, we will explore together the concerns you are wanting to change, via a series of in depth questions. I will then devise a personalised and tailored treatment programme with hypnotherapy scripts specific to you. As we know, there is no 'one size fits all' in any type of therapy.
Additional hypnotherapy sessions thereafter are one hour and include feedback from the previous session and hypnosis work.
WHAT IS THE CANCELLATION POLICY?
I do politely ask for 48 hours working day’s notice if you wish to reschedule or cancel an appointment. This enables someone else to benefit from therapy during this time. Please contact me via telephone or email, ensuring you give 48 hours working day’s notice.
Fee’s will be applied if the above notice is not given.